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Students explore a variety of literature including drama, poetry, and prose, while also developing skills in comprehension and composition. The course emphasizes critical thinking, personal response, and effective communication through both written and oral expression.
English
Senior Cycle (Years 5-6)
As a small school, students at Mater Dei Academy enjoy significant flexibility at the senior cycle and students may select their remaining subjects based on interests and future ambitions.
Core subjects: English, Irish, Mathematics
Languages: French, Latin.
Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics.
Humanities: History, Classical Studies, Art, and Music.
Other subjects may be facilitated where possible.
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Theology
The Theology programme at Mater Dei Academy is based on a combination of Sacred Scripture and doctrinal formation. Scripture is the soul of theology. Through encounter with Sacred Scripture, both in the liturgy and in studies, the student encounters the Living God. Ultimately, the Bible transmits the Word of God that saves. Study of the Bible also furnishes the student with an awareness of the development of culture in Western Civilisation and so helps the student to understand their own cultural milieu. Through encounter with the variety of biblical characters; from the Patriarchs to the Prophets; the students enter into a world where the revelation of God's loving plan of salvation unfolds before our eyes. It is in this plan that each student finds their own place and through their studies, a deeper understanding of their own dignity and unique place in God's creation.
Junior Cycle (Years 1-4)
Mater Dei Academy provides a comprehensive four-year Junior Cylce in the classical tradition. As a Cambridge International School, the junior cycle provides a comprehensive and systematic introduction to liberal education in the classical tradition leading to the Cambridge Intertional GCSE qualifications.
Curriculum
Mater Dei Academy provides a comprehensive six-year programme in the classical tradition, culminating in the Irish Leaving Certificate examination. Our four year junior cycle (years 1-4) provides a provides a comprehensive and systematic introduction to liberal education in the classical tradition while our senior cycle (years 5-6) is the Irish national curriculum, culminating in the Leaving Certificate examination.
Philosophy
The more human beings know reality and the world, the more they know themselves in their uniqueness, and with that there presses upon them the urgent desire to find out the meaning of reality and of our existence.’ Our experience of the world awakens in us ‘the fundamental questions which pervade human life: Who am I? Where have I come from and where am I going? Why is there evil? What is there after this life?... In fact, the answer given to these questions decides the direction which people seek to give to their lives.’ (St. John Paul II, Fides et Ratio). The first year of Philosophy invites students to join the millennia long tradition in the search for truth. Students are invited to enter into this search, to learn not simply about philosophy but how to do it. They learn by asking these fundamental questions for themselves.
Gaeilge
"Tír gan teanga, tír gan anam," - "A country without a language is a country without a soul,” said Pádraig Pearse. The deep roots of the Irish language are interwoven with Ireland’s Christian heritage and culture. Even the simplest greetings, such as “Dia duit” (“God be with you”) and “Dia linn” (“God with us”), emphasise the extraordinary influence of Christianity on the Irish language and the incredible influence of the Irish language on the shaping of the faith of the Irish people over the centuries. As the oldest written vernacular in Western Europe with texts dating back to the fifth century, this beautiful classical language has music, and order and is the inescapable heart of our culture, our heritage, our history, and our nation. To foster fluency and encourage the spoken language, students have the opportunity for language immersion in the west Kerry Gaeltacht and take the Teastas Eorpach na Gaeilge at the end of their fourth year. This places a strong emphasis on the spoken language. As the saying goes; 'Beatha teanga í a labhairt’- ‘to give life to the language-speak it’.
History
Modern society is shaped and formed by many of the events and systems which emerged in the Ancient World. Even today, the Ancient World influences our customs, laws, and forms of government in innumerable ways. It shapes the form and function of the buildings we live in, the writing we use to communicate on a day-to-day basis and the governments and institutions of western society. These civilisations and the questions they confronted remain as relevant today and teach us a great deal about our own culture. In the Irish context, an understanding of our Celtic and pagan forefathers provides a unique insight into the world and civilisation into which St. Patrick brought the Christian faith. Ancient history not only provides insight into human nature, but also provides a proper context for the most important event in history, the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
French
French is one of the great languages of Western civilization and has long been a principal vehicle of culture, diplomacy, philosophy, theology, literature, and science. Many pivotal works — philosophical, theological, literary, and political — were originally composed in French, and their influence continues to shape the modern world. Our goal, therefore, is not merely to produce French speakers, but readers of French who love the language itself. We want our students to encounter texts directly, to understand and appreciate the French culture, and to appreciate the truth, beauty, and richness of French in its native form.
English
The nineteenth century Anglican Archbishop of Dublin and poet, Richard Trench, remarked that ‘grammar is the logic of speech, even as logic is the grammar of reason.’ It is inconceivable to embark on a programme of reading the great books and stories of Western Civilisation without the tools for the journey. This year’s programme, not only provides the student with a solid basis for the subsequent years, but also provides the cornerstone on this all other narrative subjects, writings and discussions are founded. In literature, students encounter the great heroes and characters of the past as real-life personalities whose challenges and travails mirror those of our present time in more ways than we can possibly imagine. Ancient literature forms the foundation for Western literary and intellectual tradition that continues to our own day; it provides much of the essential framework for making sense of people, events, and movements throughout the following centuries.
Latin
Latin is the language of Western civilization and of Our Holy Mother, the Church, and so many pivotal writings -- philosophical, theological, literary, and scientific -- were originally composed in Latin. Translations of these works exist of course, but even the most exquisite translations are unable to encapsulate the original in its entirety. Our goal then is not to produce translators, but readers of Latin who love the language. We want our students to understand the text on its own and to appreciate the truth, beauty, and goodness of Latin in its native form.
Mathematics
The Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei claimed that “mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe.” The fundamental beauty, order and reasonableness of mathematical deduction is not simply critical for advanced mathematical and scientific understanding, but plays a foundational part in logical thought and deduction outside of the field of mathematics. As well as framing and forming the mind in logical deduction and reasoning, mathematics is the language which allows the student to deepen their understanding of the physical and chemical sciences in subsequent years. Ultimately, it is the goal of the mathematics programme to lead the student to a love of mathematics as a reflection of the order and perfection found in the Creator.
Science
The study of physical earth science, geography, geology and astronomy and its resulting discoveries have not only played a pivotal role in the realms of human thought and culture, but have also single-handedly paved the way for the modern physical sciences. Understanding the created world and the cosmos around them provide us with the unique context for the study of all the sciences, as well as an appreciation for our place within the infinite goodness of God’s plan for creation. With a foundational understanding of the physical earth and space around us, students are not only prepared for further study in biology, chemistry and physics, but are better equipped to perceive and internalise this order in their own experience of the God’s creation.
Music
Music is known to develop both sides of the brain (“Music and the Brain” Norman M. Weinberger, Neurobiologist). Studying songs and works and learning composition develops skills in critical thinking and analysis. Choir performance, on the other hand, encourages teamwork and inspires confidence. Instrument playing or solo singing encourages self-discipline. Practice is strongly encouraged. St. Augustine said, “to sing is to pray twice”. Music is a way to express ourselves. A subject which is a large part of everyone’s life, increasing knowledge of Music will address the varying experiences of different students entering second level education, bringing them together to create something beautiful.
Art
The appreciation and understanding of beauty are vital elements of a classical education. The goal of the art programme at Mater Dei Academy is not only to introduce students to the beauty of great art, but also to provide them with skills to create their own masterpieces. Practical techniques allow students to interpret and capture the visual world, explore their personal creativity and problem solve. For centuries, our Faith was taught through the visual arts, from ninth century scriptural High Crosses, to Michelangelo's ceiling. Art reminds us of the beauty which surrounds us and of the Creator whose work all art echoes. Throughout their years of study, students learn drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture, in a variety of mediums, taking inspiration from the masters of the past. The ultimate purpose of this programme is to give students the tools to confidently create art, and to develop their appreciation, knowledge, enjoyment, and sense of taste in the arts.
Physical Education and Activities
‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith’. The relationship between the body, the mind and the soul are inextricably linked in Christian formation and theology. At Mater Dei Academy, we place strong emphasis on a healthy body, mind and soul. Physical education and activities are always aimed to be inclusive and fun. Activities are aimed at fostering the moral characteristics and virtues which make the Christian growth of the soul analogous to the athletic growth and development of the body. A strong emphasis on team-based and collaborative activities underlines the importance of these values in wider society and in the growth of the body, mind and soul.
The Irish course focuses on developing fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing the language. It includes literature, grammar, and cultural components, encouraging appreciation of Irish heritage and language use in everyday life.
Gaeilge
Maths at Leaving Cert level emphasizes problem-solving, logical reasoning, and numerical fluency across algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics. The course is tiered (Ordinary and Higher Level) to suit varying student abilities and future academic needs.
Mathematics
Physics explores the fundamental principles governing matter, energy, motion, and forces. It combines theoretical understanding with experimental investigations to develop analytical and scientific skills.
Physics
Chemistry investigates the composition, properties, and reactions of substances, with an emphasis on chemical formulas, bonding, and organic chemistry. Practical laboratory work supports theoretical learning and encourages scientific inquiry.
Chemistry
Biology examines the structure, function, and evolution of living organisms, including topics like genetics, ecology, and human physiology. Students develop skills in observation, analysis, and experimentation through lab-based learning.
Biology
Classical Studies explores the literature, history, and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, including mythology, epic, and drama. The subject encourages critical thinking about human society, values, and artistic legacy through ancient texts and archaeology. This includes a project assessment.
Classical Studies
French develops communicative competence in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with a strong focus on real-life usage and cultural understanding. The course includes grammar, vocabulary, and appreciation of French-speaking cultures.
French
The Music course balances theory, composition, and performance, allowing students to develop technical skills and creative expression. Students study set works, aural skills, and present individual or group performances as part of assessment.
Music
Art combines practical studio work in areas like painting, sculpture, and design with study of art history and appreciation. The course nurtures creativity, visual awareness, and an understanding of cultural and historical art contexts. The assesment includes practical work.
Art
After School Subjects
Mater Dei Academy After-School subjects are available subject to demand and teacher availability.
Applied Mathematics develops advanced problem-solving skills by applying mathematical principles to real-world physical situations, particularly mechanics. Students study motion, forces, and mathematical modelling using calculus and vectors. The subject emphasises logical reasoning, precision, and clear presentation. It strongly complements higher-level Mathematics and Physics.
Applied Mathematics
DCG focuses on visual communication, design thinking, and spatial awareness through freehand sketching and CAD. Students learn to represent and analyse objects, structures, and mechanisms accurately. The subject develops creativity alongside technical and problem-solving skills. It is particularly relevant to careers in engineering, architecture, and design.
Design and Communication Graphics
Construction Studies explores the theory and practice of building construction, materials, and structural design. Students examine domestic and industrial buildings, sustainability, and modern construction techniques. The subject combines practical knowledge with analytical and design skills. It provides a strong foundation for construction, engineering, and architecture-related careers.
Construction Studies
Politics and Society encourages critical thinking about power, democracy, human rights, and global citizenship. Students analyse political systems, social movements, and contemporary issues using research and debate. The subject fosters active citizenship and informed participation in society. It is well suited to students interested in law, politics, journalism, and social sciences.
Politics and Society
Accounting teaches students how to record, analyse, and interpret financial information for businesses and organisations. Students develop skills in financial statements, budgeting, and decision-making. The subject promotes accuracy, logical thinking, and problem-solving. It provides an excellent foundation for business, finance, and economics-related studies.
Accounting
Economics examines how individuals, businesses, and governments make choices about limited resources. Students study topics such as supply and demand, markets, economic growth, and global trade. The subject develops analytical thinking and an understanding of real-world economic issues. It is valuable for careers in business, public policy, and finance.
Economics
Spanish develops students’ ability to communicate confidently in a modern European language. Students build skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing while exploring Spanish culture and society. The subject promotes cultural awareness and linguistic competence. It is highly beneficial for further study, travel, and careers in international contexts.